Established as a center for commerce and government before the American Revolution, Perth Amboy is located at the head of the Raritan Bay, which offers a deep water port for tankers and heavy freighters. This highly developed and long-standing industrial center offers residents a balanced mix of retail centers, social services, excellent transportation facilities, and quality education. Housing options range from single-family homes in a variety of architectural styles to duplexes and condominiums. The city is accessible to major highways including the New Jersey Turnpike, Garden State Parkway, U.S. 1 and I-287, Routes 9 and 35, and Highway 440 to the Outerbridge crossing.